The Minister for Government Communications, Felix Kwakye Ofosu, has revealed that one Ghanaian and one Chinese firm operating in Ghana gifted the electric vehicles to President John Mahama. Mr. Ofosu said this was part of a broader effort to promote the adoption of green energy technologies. This follows the launch of a new Code of Conduct for appointees by President Mahama, who also publicly declared receiving two vehicles as gifts, which he then handed over to the state.
Speaking in an interview with Asempa FM’s Ekosiisen show on Wednesday, May 7, Mr. Kwakye Ofosu defended the gesture, asserting that there is no law in Ghana prohibiting the acceptance of gifts, particularly when they serve a broader public purpose. He added that such practices are common, with individuals and organizations frequently offering items to influential figures in the hope of gaining support or visibility. “On a daily basis, people bring such items with the intention of gaining support for promotion,” the Minister noted.
He added, “The cars in question are electric vehicles that two companies wish to introduce into the country.” He explained that the gifts were intended to align with Ghana’s transition to renewable energy and low-emission transport. By accepting and publicly using the vehicles, the President is expected to help raise awareness and inspire confidence in electric vehicle technology. “These companies gifted the cars to the President in line with the broader goal of transitioning to green energy,” Mr. Kwakye Ofosu said.
Mr. Kwakye Ofosu explained that the vehicles were intended to support Ghana’s ongoing transition to sustainable energy. “Given his position and influence in society, his use of the vehicles could help encourage the public to adopt them,” he said. The Minister was unequivocal in asserting that the President had done nothing improper. “There is no law that prohibits the acceptance of gifts,” he stated plainly. Meanwhile, the Minister also mentioned that the President’s move is a straightforward act of transparency to set the tone for government officials.
